URVIO. Revista Latinoamericana de Estudios de Seguridad

Fighting the narcos in the streets. An ethnographic study of drug trafficking, women and segregated areas

Romina Rajoy — 2025-05-31

Introduction: this article proposes to reflect on the representations and disputes surrounding the phenomenon of drug trafficking in segregated areas of Argentina. The chosen theoretical perspective favors the analysis of the social meanings of violence in segregated areas. Objective: we analyze the representations and meanings about the problem of drug trafficking displayed by women who manage key community spaces in contexts of poverty: community kitchens, care spaces, etc. Methodology: the methodology used is based on an ethnographic approach, with fieldwork carried out from 2020 to the present. In-depth interviews and observations were carried out. Conclusions: the phenomenon of drug trafficking reinforces the stigmatization of segregated neighborhoods in Argentina, where drug use is perceived as a growing challenge. In this context, drugs not only overburden dining halls and community spaces, but also increase care responsibilities, especially for women. Thus, the problem of drug trafficking highlights social tensions and the need to rethink intervention policies and community care models.

Geostrategic relevance of Gorgona Island: impact on drug trafficking by the Colombian Navy

Juan Camilo Ubaque-Bernal — 2025-05-31

Introduction: Gorgona Island National Natural Park is the only continental island in the Colombian Pacific, which is the pivotal area that stands out in front of a long coast that concentrates violence and illicit economies of the Colombian State in the middle of the post-conflict, so the problem oscillates in how the National Navy can erect a geostrategic asset on that island to serve as a geopolitical zone against drug trafficking. Objective: we seek to determine the naval and maritime projection of the State against illicit economies, taking as a reference the geostrategy of Gorgona Island as a national and international project of State power. Methodology: under the Delphi methodology, a group of military experts is consolidated to contribute to the construction of judgments in the face of a current, contemporary and highly relevant problem for the national security interest. Conclusions: Gorgona Island is the most important geostrategic asset of continental order in the Pacific, in which the Colombian Navy is the main pioneer.

The development of peace and conflict studies and contributions from Latin America

Roberta Holanda Maschietto — 2025-05-31

Introduction: this article provides an overview of the development of peace and conflict studies as an academic field in the world in general and in Latin America in particular. Objective: it examines its growth and the contributions of scholars from the region. Methodology: it is based on an extensive review of the literature on peace and conflict in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, as well as our own experience as scholars in the field. Conclusions: while peace and conflict studies have traditionally been shaped by institutions and epistemologies from the Global North, we argue that Latin American contributions offer critical insights with their emphasis on various forms of violence and conceptions of peace anchored in social justice. These perspectives challenge the dominant liberal paradigm and broaden the scope of the field by addressing the complexity of violence and peacebuilding in the region. Despite institutional limitations and linguistic barriers that hinder wider dissemination, peace and conflict studies in Latin America is gaining momentum through growing academic production, dedicated programmes, and increased regional collaboration. We call for greater recognition of these contributions in global debates to foster more inclusive and plural peace and conflict studies.

Transitions and criticisms in the peacebuilding: from liberal peace to military peace

Sebastián Camilo Reyes Guzmán — 2025-05-31

Introduction: by 2023, there were 36 contexts of armed conflict and mostly intra-state conflicts with regional and national dynamics, the highest number since 2014, suggesting the need for peace models that are adapted to the particularities of each conflict. Liberal Peace, promoted after the Cold War, is based on the implementation of democratic institutions and market economies, but has been criticised for its prescriptive approach and its inability to adapt to local realities. Military Peace, in turn, is based on immediate stabilisation through military interventions, but has also been questioned for perpetuating conflict by failing to address its underlying causes. Aim: in this sense, this article examines the transition from Liberal Peace to Military Peace in the current context, addressing the inherent limitations of both approaches to peace. The research employs a decolonial approach to argue that both models perpetuate structures of domination and subalternity. Methodology: the methodology employed combines literature review and critical analysis. Conclusions: the transition from Liberal Peace to Military Peace evidences limitations by ignoring local dynamics. Overcoming them requires integrating local epistemologies and comprehensive strategies to build legitimate, sustainable and emancipatory peace processes.

African Indigenous Knowledge to Prevent Violence: An Analytical Proposal

Helena Cardona — 2025-05-31

Introduction: indigenous knowledge encompasses ancestral wisdom that shapes the customs, beliefs, and dynamics of today's society. Just as traditional practices have been integrated into conflict resolution, this same wisdom should also be included in violence prevention. Objective: this article offers a theoretical approach on how African indigenous knowledge can be integrated into mechanisms for preventing violent conflict. Methodology: through historical-analytical research, a decolonial approach is used to frame this review of the academic literature on conflict prevention and Indigenous knowledge. Conclusions: integrating this local wisdom and practices will make prevention strategies more culturally appropriate, effective, and sustainable. Giving visibility to Indigenous strategies will enrich international peace and security policies by offering more tools. Ultimately, Indigenous knowledge provides an opportunity to de-Westernize peace and security strategies.

Peacekeeping as a socio-political laboratory: the cases of Timor-Leste and Haiti

Joel-Angel Bravo-Anduaga — 2025-05-31

Introduction: the implementation of peace through the international institutional system set up at the end of the Second World War became visible mainly through the peacekeeping operations of the United Nations (UN), the institution responsible for guaranteeing peace and security at global level. Objective: Propose a structuring of peacekeeping operations as socio-political laboratories, based on the cases of Haiti and Timor-Leste. Methodology: a qualitative approach is used, based on a documentary review of primary and secondary sources in the context of peace and conflict studies, particularly in relation to peacekeeping operations. Conclusions: the findings suggest an exhaustion in the implementation of peacekeeping operations in their current form. There is a trend towards the creation of more Special Political Missions or similar figures for conflict management, as they involve more limited deployments. It is suggested that these new missions should also be structured as socio-political laboratories.

From peasant guerrillas to urban civilians: the peace process in Colombia peace process in Colombia 2016-2024

Olmo-Jesús Sierra-Moreno — 2025-05-31

Introduction: the implementation of the peace agreement in Colombia has posed significant challenges for its signatories, who have had to adapt to a reality far removed from their previous experiences—whether in rural life or in hiding. Objective: this study examines the transformations in the daily lives of the peace agreement’s signatories following its implementation. Methodology: between 2017 and 2024, interviews were conducted with 15 signatories of the agreement, focusing on their everyday experiences and the challenges encountered during the reincorporation process. The analysis revealed three major obstacles affecting their daily lives: unemployment, security concerns, and inadequate housing access. These challenges have significantly diminished their quality of life, hindered full societal integration, and undermined the anticipated success of the reincorporation process. Conclusions: the current reincorporation model, which remains overly focused on demobilization, must be re-evaluated. A more comprehensive approach is needed to ensure the signatories’ effective integration as citizens and the long-term sustainability of peace in Colombia.